The Southwest Asia Service Medal was established on March 12, 1991, and is awarded to members of the United States Armed Forces who served in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in the designated Southwest Asia theater of operations between August 2, 1990, and November 30, 1995. The medal recognizes military personnel who participated in combat operations, direct support missions, and other qualifying service during the Gulf War.

The medal features a desert landscape with military aircraft, ships, and armored vehicles representing the joint military effort in Southwest Asia. Service stars may be worn on the ribbon to denote participation in designated campaign phases. The Southwest Asia Service Medal remains a significant Gulf War military decoration honoring service and sacrifice in support of U.S. and coalition operation